A ‘Mirror and a Lamp’ for Post-industrial Mining Communities

Keywords: memory, rural communities, American West, post-industrial, mining, futures
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Saturday
Session Start / End Time: 2/26/2022 02:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/26/2022 03:20 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 20

Abstract

Collective memory is a useful lens to examine post-industrial communities in the U.S. West as they face transitions. Collective memory is formed by individuals in groups or communities who have shared memories, which contribute to their identity. Collective memories can exist in various mediums, including but not limited to public symbols, conversations, traditions, rituals, or texts. Research has examined collective memory in post-industrial mining communities to elucidate how it impacts the desire to embrace change, the ability to envision a new future, or connections to the landscape. Previous research has employed qualitative methods such as interviews, content analysis, or participant observation. This research will make methodological contributions to collective memory literature by developing and testing quantitative measures in a questionnaire disseminated to the town of Anaconda, Montana. Anaconda is a rural town located in southwest Montana with a legacy of copper mining and is currently listed as a Superfund site. Results will be presented about collective memory and how it affects the community outlook towards economic and cultural transitions. This research will provide insight into the importance of collective memory when studying post-industrial towns’ future trajectories across both space and time.